Carlos Ulberg remained calm and dismissive when confronted by Josh Hockett during a UFC promotional event. In a brief exchange, Hockett approached Ulberg and made comments about his size, asking if he wanted to move up to heavyweight. The interaction, captured by UFC ANZ, showed Ulberg largely ignoring Hockett's provocations. Hockett's remarks were partially inaudible in the footage. The encounter followed Hockett's earlier bizarre media day speech. Ulberg's composed response contrasted sharply with Hockett's confrontational approach.
Carlos Ulberg brushed off an attempted mind game from Josh Hockett during a UFC promotional event on April 8, keeping his composure as Hockett approached him and questioned whether the New Zealander should be competing at heavyweight instead of light heavyweight.
Footage captured by UFC ANZ showed Hockett initiating the exchange and making remarks about Ulberg's size. Ulberg's response was largely dismissive, and much of what Hockett said was difficult to make out in the video. The confrontation came after Hockett had already drawn attention earlier in the media day with what was described as a bizarre speech.
Ulberg, who trains out of City Kickboxing in New Zealand, carries a 15-1 record and currently sits third in the light heavyweight divisional rankings. The 35-year-old stands six-foot-four with a 77-inch reach, making Hockett's comments about his size something of an odd angle to pursue against a fighter who is already one of the larger men in the 205-pound division. Ulberg lands 6.54 significant strikes per minute at a 55 percent accuracy rate, numbers that reflect an aggressive, efficient striker.
Why it matters
- Ulberg is ranked third at light heavyweight, meaning any fight involving him carries direct title implications for the division
- Hockett's confrontational approach appears designed to generate attention ahead of their matchup
- Ulberg's refusal to engage emotionally suggests a composed mindset heading into the bout
- The size dynamic Hockett attempted to needle is arguably one of Ulberg's physical advantages in the division
